Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will not interfere in the Office of the Ombudsman's investigation involving his cousin, former speaker Martin Romualdez, Malaca±ang announced Monday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the President remains adamant that investigations should be guided solely by evidence, irrespective of who might be implicated.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla disclosed that the anti-graft body is nearing the completion of its investigation into an alleged multibillion-peso flood control anomaly involving Romualdez. Romualdez's camp, through lawyer Ade Fajardo, has denied any involvement in alleged irregularities involving flood control projects, asserting that there is no evidence linking the former speaker to any anomaly and that he is prepared to face the legal process if charges are filed.

Castro also dismissed allegations of selective justice following claims by ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio that administration allies linked to questionable flood control projects have yet to face charges. She asserted that the justice system requires evidence and due process, not mere accusations, and highlighted that the investigation into alleged flood control anomalies began after Marcos publicly ordered a probe last year during his fourth State of the Nation Address.

Meanwhile, lawyer Elaine Atienza, Romualdez's spokesperson, reiterated that the former Speaker has not been convicted of any offense, that no criminal case has been filed before the Sandiganbayan, and that he has not yet been given the opportunity to answer the allegations against him. Atienza emphasized that the announcement pertains only to the commencement of a preliminary investigation, where respondents are afforded the opportunity to present their side, and where the constitutional presumption of innocence remains fully in force.

Romualdez's camp also denied any insinuation that he has attempted to evade the legal process, affirming that he is in the country and will remain there until he clears his name.